Manchester United are in advanced talks to sign 17-year-old winger Noah Ajayi to his first professional contract, as the club seeks to secure the future of another prominent academy prospect. According to reporting from The People’s Person and additional sources including Sky Sports reporter Danyal Khan, the club is closing in on an agreement that would commit the Hamburg-born attacker to long-term terms at Old Trafford.
Multiple independent sources report the deal is currently at an advanced stage, with an agreement expected between all parties. While an official announcement from Manchester United is still pending, the development represents a significant strategic move for the club as they navigate a challenging period in academy retention.
Academy Stability Amid Uncertainty
The progress regarding Ajayi provides a necessary counter-balance to the uncertainty currently surrounding 15-year-old JJ Gabriel. As reported by The Guardian and the BBC, Gabriel has formally requested the cancellation of his registration with the club, a move which has prompted a high-level response from Manchester United executives including Sir Jim Ratcliffe. While the club works to resolve that situation ahead of Gabriel’s 16th birthday on 6 October, securing Ajayi serves to reinforce their commitment to internal player pathways.
Developing Talent and Tactical Fit
Ajayi has been with the club since he was 10 years old, steadily progressing through the age groups. The winger enjoyed a productive campaign last season, netting nine goals across all competitions and scoring the decisive goal in the Premier League League Cup final against Crystal Palace. Standing 6ft 2in tall, Ajayi has drawn stylistic comparisons to a young Marcus Rashford due to his direct, driving runs from the left flank. Staff at Carrington are understood to be highly impressed with his development, and the current plan is for the teenager to integrate further into training with Michael Carrick’s first-team squad over the coming months.
Market Context and Competition
Despite sustained interest from clubs across Europe, including potential suitors in Germany, Ajayi appears set to commit his future to his current club. Our rumour tracker shows the confidence in this deal is high, with multiple credible reports corroborating the move toward professional terms. While United’s academy policy has recently faced external scrutiny—particularly regarding loan management for players like Jaydan Kamason and the exit request from Gabriel—finalising Ajayi’s professional status is a key priority. The club will be looking to conclude these formalities before the next registration window closes to avoid any risk of external interference.
